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kevjcarvalho
- 42
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does anyone know the mechanisms of a mechanical calculator?
A mechanical calculator works by using gears, levers, and other mechanical components to perform mathematical operations. When numbers are entered into the calculator, the gears and levers work together to add, subtract, multiply, or divide the numbers based on the specific operation selected.
The main difference between a mechanical calculator and an electronic calculator is the way they perform calculations. A mechanical calculator uses mechanical components, while an electronic calculator uses electronic circuits to perform mathematical operations. Electronic calculators are also more advanced and can perform more complex calculations compared to mechanical calculators.
Mechanical calculators are generally very accurate, with most models having a margin of error of less than 1%. However, over time, the accuracy of mechanical calculators can decrease due to wear and tear on the mechanical components. Regular maintenance and calibration can help ensure accurate results.
Yes, mechanical calculators can handle more than basic mathematical operations. Some models have additional functions such as square root, percentage, and exponentiation. However, the functions available may vary depending on the model and manufacturer.
Mechanical calculators have been in use since the 17th century, with the first mechanical calculator being invented by Blaise Pascal in 1642. However, it was not until the 19th century that mechanical calculators became more widely used and commercially available.